A grape that traces back to before Roman times, Mondeuse Noire originated in Savoie, France, but can be found in small amounts in Italy, Switzerland, Argentina, Australia, California, and Oregon. When Mondeuse Noire was originally brought to California, it was confused for the Italian Refosco variety, meaning that only a few vineyards actually cultivated Mondeuse Noire in the New World. An offspring of Mondeuse Blanche and Tressot, Mondeuse Noire is typically produced as a single varietal wine, but is occasionally blended with Pinot Noir and Gamay. With notes of violets, strawberry, raspberry, graphite, and spice, Mondeuse Noire pairs well with herb-crusted lamb, aged cheese, and grilled mushrooms. 

Famille Richel Mondeuse Paradoxe 2018

This medium-bodied red is almost as notable for what it’s not as what it is. It is the opposite of high-yield, big batch winemaking — hence the name, Paradoxe. It is not produced using herbicides or chemical fertilizers. This wine, made from 100% Mondeuse, IS produced from sustainably farmed grapes. Opening with perfumed notes of violet and red fruits, the wine is smooth and light, with subtle tannins and notes of black plum and black cherry on the palate. The finish is lengthy, with peppery notes, making it the perfect wine alongside steak, lamb shank, stuffed eggplant, and grilled mushrooms.

Grape Photo Credit: Ursula Brühl, Julius Kühn-Institut (JKI), Federal Research Centre for Cultivated Plants, Institute for Grapevine Breeding Geilweilerhof - 76833 Siebeldingen, GERMANY